Erongo Mountains

North of Karibib and Usakos lies one of Namibias most popular natural attractionsthe volcanic Erongo Mountain Range. Rising to 2,320 meters above sea level, its western peaks dominate the flat plains west of Omaruru, lending their name to the surrounding Erongo region. Flanked by the Namib Desert to the west and woodland savannah to the east, this roughly circular massif is a striking geological wonder.

A relic of a long-extinct volcano, the Erongo Mountains formed some 140150 million years ago. After the volcano collapsed into its magma chamber, the basin gradually filled with slow-cooling igneous rock. Over time, erosion wore away the softer surrounding layers, leaving behind the resilient granite-like core that remains today.

This unique confluence of ecosystems supports an extraordinary diversity of plant, reptile, mammal, and bird speciessome found nowhere else in the world. The area is home to leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, elephants, rhinos, and an array of antelope species, including kudu, oryx, eland, and springbok. Birdwatchers will be delighted by nearly 200 recorded species, including the yellow-billed hornbill, the vibrant lilac-breasted roller, and the striking crimson-bou bou.

Beyond its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife, the Erongo Mountains are also rich in ancient rock art. Among the most famous paintings is the White Elephant frieze in Phillips Cave, located on the southern edge of the mountain. Found on the Ameib farm, about 30 km from Usakos and 240 km from Windhoek, the cave is accessible via a scenic 45-minute walk. The artwork depicts a large, hump-backed antelopepossibly an elandsuperimposed over an elephant, alongside frolicking ostriches and giraffes.

Renowned French archaeologist and anthropologist Abb Breuil helped bring this site to global attention through his meticulous studies of Southern African rock art. As a skilled draughtsman, he carefully reproduced cave paintings and published extensive works on the subject.

Other notable rock formations in the area include Elephant Head and the Bulls Partya cluster of boulders resembling a circle of gossiping bovines. Another much-photographed rock formation strikingly resembles a Herero woman in traditional dress, standing with two children.

With its stunning landscapes and wealth of activities, the Erongo Mountains offer the perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can enjoy hiking, 4x4 game drives, rock climbing, mineral collecting, mountain biking, and even horseback safaris. And of course, no visit is complete without a sundowner drive to take in the regions breathtaking scenery at sunset.